A satellite State Emergency Service (SES) unit will be established in Gawler, by a Labor Government if elected in March 2022.
Local Member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo has been working with the Salisbury SES Unit for some years to explore the feasibility of opening a ‘satellite unit’ in Gawler under their auspices.
The unit would be physically based in Gawler and initially under the management of the Salisbury SES until enough members have been recruited to ensure its long-term viability.
Last year the SES acquired land on Two Wells Road, Willaston which could house a new Unit, amongst other emergency services and community uses.
Speaking at the Salisbury SES Open Day on Saturday Mr Piccolo announced that “a Malinauskas Labor Government will deliver a dedicated local SES Unit in Gawler if elected in March 2022.”
Mr Piccolo said the establishment of a local SES Unit in Gawler is vital, as the nearest unit is in Kapunda. “Having a local presence will be very important in attracting new volunteers to the service,” said Mr Piccolo.
“A preliminary investigation indicates that a capital cost of about $2m will be required to establish the Unit.”
“The need for an SES unit in Gawler has been recognised for a long time and has significant local support including a growing number of keen local volunteers.”
“Now is the time to commit to establishing the facility to ensure volunteers are trained and ready to meet the challenges of the planned population increase.”
The North Para and Gawler River systems are known as flood risks in the area, and flood on average, every ten years.
“The existing units [Salisbury and Kapunda SES] do a great job in helping protect local people, but more volunteers are needed and a permanent presence in Gawler would help attract new volunteers.”
“The SES is a great organisation to volunteer for and there are a range of activities volunteers could be involved in.
“No experience in emergency or rescue services is required to join the SES as a volunteer as they provide a very comprehensive training program.”
“Volunteering for the SES is a great way of becoming involved in the community, and also helps you keep fit.” Research has shown that people who volunteer in their communities, experience better health and quality of life.
“Volunteering provides opportunities to be connected to other people in their community.”
“Lifelong friendships are often built through volunteering.”